☞ Before we begin our sunrise journey at Geumgangsan Sinseondae, let us take a moment to share a Korean folktale often told about Geumgangsan and Ulsanbawi.
Long ago, it is said that the mountain god was creating Geumgangsan, known as the most beautiful mountain, with twelve thousand peaks. To complete such a grand vision, he called upon rocks from all over Korea to come and take part in its formation.
Among them was a great rock, Ulsanbawi, which began travelling from afar to join the creation. But it was vast and slow, and its journey took far longer than expected.
By the time it reached the region of Seoraksan, the mountain had already been completed. The words had been spoken: Geumgangsan was finished, and there was no place left for it.
With nowhere to return to, Ulsanbawi remained where it had stopped. And there it stands still today, a solitary formation said to have arrived too late, quietly facing north toward the mountain it was meant to call home.
Some people laugh when they hear this story, but somehow, it feels quietly sad. ㅠㅠ
Geumgangsan Sinseondae, located in Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do, often referred to as the northern area of Seoraksan or Seongindae, is a popular and relatively gentle hiking destination well known for its sweeping panoramic views of Ulsanbawi Rock and the East Sea. The full round trip takes about two hours starting from Hwaamsa Temple, making it an accessible climb for most hikers. On clear mornings or evenings, the summit offers especially memorable scenery, with sunrise and sunset casting soft light across the mountains and, on rare occasions, a sea of clouds drifting through the valleys below.
We set off before dawn, hoping to catch the first light as it broke over the horizon. Our original plan had been to camp overnight at the summit, watching the Milky Way unfold above us before greeting the sunrise, but the strong winds made staying up there feel both uncomfortable and unsafe. In the end, we adjusted our plan and aimed instead to reach the peak in time for sunrise. We were not entirely alone on the trail; a couple of other hikers were ahead of us, their presence reassuring as we made our way through the darkness in challenging conditions.
Hiking through the pitch-black forest felt familiar, shaped by our experience from several ascents during the BAC 100 Peaks Challenge. This time, however, it was the cold and wind that tested us most. Temperatures had fallen close to winter levels, and the sharp gusts near the ridgelines turned each step into a quiet struggle against the elements.
The trail to Geumgangsan Sinseondae offers a pleasing blend of gentle paths and moderate climbs, making it both accessible and rewarding. As you make your way through dense forest and over rocky sections, a sense of anticipation steadily builds as the summit draws nearer. The hike typically takes around two hours to complete, depending on your pace.
Geumgangsan’s upper trails are lined with striking rock formations, and near the summit, enormous rock boulders form natural viewpoints that feel almost made for adventure. These boulders offered shelter from the strong winds as we waited for the first light of day. When dawn finally arrived, the scene was truly surreal, with every ridge and boulder silhouetted against a glowing sky, each one catching the early light as though placed under nature’s own spotlight.
We reached the summit just in time. The deep purples and blues of the early morning sky transformed into vibrant oranges and pinks as the sun peeked over the horizon. The wind was harsh, but the view was more than worth it. Standing there, enveloped in nature’s beauty, felt like pure magic.
From the peak, we caught sight of Ulsanbawi, a renowned rock formation we’d previously only admired in photos. The experience was everything we had hoped for and more.
Despite the relentless wind, we lingered at the top for another half hour, savoring the view and the solitude.
Recap Images
Again! If you’re interested in Milky Way photography, this mountain is perfect. The clear skies and minimal light pollution offer an excellent opportunity to capture the stars—especially with Ulsanbawi in the frame.
“In the mountains, I find a home for my spirit, a sanctuary where peace flows as freely as the rivers.”
When the sun fully rose, it was time to say our goodbyes to the mountain.
Descending the trail was quicker, and on the way down, we spotted more rock formations near the helipads—ideal locations for capturing photos under the clear blue sky.
Reaching Geumgangsan Sinseondae from Seoul is relatively straightforward, taking around two to three hours by car. Alternatively, you can travel by public transport to Sokcho, followed by a local bus or taxi to the trailhead. The paths are well marked, making this hike suitable for both beginners and more experienced hikers alike.
Once we returned to the parking area, we noticed more hikers arriving, ready to set out on their own adventures.
☞ Please remember to maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor while on the temple grounds.
Our first sunrise hike at Geumgangsan Sinseondae was nothing short of magical. The blend of the ancient temple, the breathtaking sunrise, and the raw beauty of the surrounding landscape made it a journey we are unlikely to forget. Geumgangsan Sinseondae offers a rare combination of history, culture, and remarkable natural scenery, making it a destination well worth a place on any outdoor enthusiast’s list. If you find yourself in South Korea, it is certainly not to be missed. This is a hike that lingers in the memory long after the trail has ended.
Have you ever witnessed a magical sunrise in the mountains? Share your experiences or your favorite hiking spots below!
“Relive View!”
“Google Map!”
“Weather Wisdom!”
☞ When it comes to hiking, checking the weather isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a crucial safety measure. Always take the weather forecast seriously before hitting the trail.
☞ If you have any concerns or questions about hiking Geumgangsan Sinseondae, please feel free to leave a comment in the comment section below. We’ll do our best to share more details and provide helpful information to ensure you have a great hiking experience. Whether you need advice on gear, trail conditions, or planning your visit, we’re here to help.
